Missouri City’s former city manager dies

By Elsa Maxey

Frank Simpson, 48, former city manager of Missouri City between 2004 – 2011, and newly named city manager of College Station, died this past Saturday of what is reported to have been a heart attack. Simpson had been city manager of College Station for less than a month. After four years as city manager in Webster and later his tenure in Missouri City, he served as deputy manager of College Station for two years and as its interim city manager since January replacing David Neely, who retired from municipal government public service.

“Frank was a dedicated family man, a person involved with the community, always had a laugh in him, and was an asset to our community for over 7 years as our City Manager,” said Mayor Allen Owen. “Frank had always told me that at some point in his life he wanted to go back to College Station to end his career,” the mayor fondly shared with the Star, “where he loved his Aggie background. That career ended way too soon. At least he got his wish though.” Simpson had a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s degree in public administration from Texas A&M.

Reports indicate that Simpson was doing yard work when he collapsed and was taken to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Kelly (his wife) and the three children as they go through this tragic loss,” said Mayor Owen. Accounts indicate that the family had recently sold their home in Lake Olympia before purchasing one in College Station.

Services for Simpson were set for this week. In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Heart Association are being accepted in Simpson’s memory. Also, a college fund for the three children named the Frank Simpson Children’s College Trust Fund has been established for donations at Prosperity Bank in College Station on 1862 Rock Prairie Road. “May God hold his family in his arms and comfort them,” said Mayor Owen.